News Flash

Springfield-Greene County Health Department News Releases

Community members, health department staff and leaders across the health care industry came together this afternoon to celebrate CoxHealth President and CEO Steve Edwards as the winner of the 2018 Harold K. Bengsch award.

More than 60 people attended the reception at CoxHealth’s Meyer Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Hospital honoring both Edwards as well as the award’s namesake, County Commissioner and retired Health Director Harold K. Bengsch.

“I’m not sure I’ve ever met anyone as honorable as he is,” Edwards said of Bengsch. “He’s so steadfast, his integrity, his commitment.”

Edwards maintained that humble tone throughout his remarks, noting the accomplishments of his team at CoxHealth and recognizing leaders in the room who helped chart his path rather than taking credit for himself.

Bengsch too noted the people who helped Edwards along the way, including his father, Charles.

“It’s interesting to hear some of the words Steve says, as they’re the same as his father said back in the ‘70s,” says Bengsch. “The course was set by (Steve’s) dad, but he’s taken things to the next level.”

Bengsch said he had many examples of the dedication to community he admires in Edwards.

“If there’s anyone in this community that exhibits the ability to foster collaboration, it’s Steve Edwards,” Bengsch said.

“Harold Bengsch taught this community how to collaborate,” Edwards insisted.

Again turning the focus back to Bengsch, Edwards declared it Bolo Tie Friday at CoxHealth, removing his tie and donning a western bolo tie in honor of Bengsch’s signature accessory.

During the event, Assistant Director of Health Katie Towns reflected on her time at CoxHealth before returning to the Springfield-Greene County Health Department. She noted that Edwards was steadfast in his belief in what people are able to accomplish.

“I just wanted to say, thank you for that expectation,” Towns said. “As an employee here, I could feel that expectation, and it was an honor to work for someone who had that expectation.”